Finn McCorry, a DJ and NTS host, dives into the fascinating world of Big Beat Cinema, a playful exploration of stylish heist films from the late '90s and early '00s. He discusses the vibrant interplay between big beat music and iconic movies like Ocean's Eleven, reflecting on the genre's decline and past popularity. The conversation touches on the unrealistic depictions of technology in films and critiques the commercialization of dance music in cinema. With humor and nostalgia, Finn reveals how these elements shaped our cultural landscape.
Big Beat Cinema merges iconic heist films with the pulsating sound of big beat music, reflecting a unique cultural moment of the late '90s.
Core to this genre are its charismatic antiheroes, whose thrilling escapades challenge societal norms and present a carefree attitude toward crime.
Innovative editing techniques in Big Beat Cinema, such as quick cuts and freeze frames, enhance storytelling and engage viewers with dynamic visuals.
Deep dives
Introduction to Big Beat Cinema
Big Beat Cinema is characterized by its blend of film, music, and culture from the late 1990s to early 2000s. This genre, marked by its association with heist movies, showcases a unique collection of films featuring distinctive soundtracks that lean heavily on the big beat music style. A central feature of these films is their portrayal of charismatic and cool antiheroes who operate outside societal norms, celebrated for their unconventional lifestyles and adventurous spirits. The hosts reflect on how their fascination with this cinematic style emerged over time, emphasizing their deep-rooted connections through discussions and memories from university days.
Key Films and Their Characteristics
The podcast identifies several quintessential films within the Big Beat Cinema genre, including 'Ocean's Eleven,' 'The Bourne Identity,' and 'Snatch.' These films are often driven by a heist narrative, featuring ensemble casts of characters with rich personas and meticulously crafted storylines. The use of montages, fast editing, and playful camerawork enhances the storytelling, creating an engaging experience for viewers. The discussion highlights how these films embrace a carefree attitude toward crime, framing unlawful acts as thrilling escapades rather than morally questionable behavior.
Cultural Context and Music Influence
The cultural context surrounding Big Beat Cinema is explored extensively, particularly the rise of electronic and dance music accompanying this cinematic wave. The podcast notes the significant impact of British artists like Fatboy Slim, Moby, and the Chemical Brothers, whose work defined the music of the era. The seamless integration of big beat tracks into film soundtracks served to amplify the rebellious and underground vibe that these films projected. Moreover, the hosts analyze how the music resonated with audiences, shaping popular culture and influencing the aesthetics of late '90s and early 2000s cinema.
The Role of Editing and Visual Style
Editing and visual style are key elements in Big Beat Cinema, contributing to the overall appeal of these films. The podcast emphasizes how innovative editing techniques, such as quick cuts and freeze frames, are employed to enhance action and express character traits. This technique creates a rhythmic experience that aligns with the pulsating beats of the accompanying soundtracks, making every visual moment feel as dynamic as the music itself. The unique flair of these editing styles accentuates the films' themes of excitement and adventure, compelling viewers to engage with the narrative on a visceral level.
Legacy of Big Beat Cinema
The legacy of Big Beat Cinema is viewed through its lasting impact on contemporary culture, as the genre continues to influence filmmakers and audiences alike. The hosts reflect on how elements from this cinematic movement have been echoed in modern films, albeit with a more subdued awareness of its cultural tropes. There's a noted nostalgia for the carefree and rebellious spirit of these films, showcasing a desire for similar cinematic experiences in today's landscape. The discussion concludes with an anticipation of future episodes dedicated to exploring more films, themes, and nuanced discussions connected to Big Beat Cinema.
This week we kick off the first ever No Tags film season! Based on an original idea by DJ and NTS host Finn, Big Beat Cinema is our attempt to identify and decode a much-loved and entirely made-up micro-genre.
We begin by outlining the core canon and basic tropes of BBC, paying particular attention to the ultra-stylish heist movies of the late ‘90s and early ‘00s – think Ocean’s Eleven, Mark Wahlberg’s The Italian Job, Snatch and even The Matrix.
We also try to explain why big beat – the sample-flipping, chart-dominating, Hawaiian shirt-wearing sound of the millennium – became so integral to these movies’ portrayal of cool guys pulling off implausible heists.
From zany editing to Junkie XL, from Paul Oakenfold to the politics of cool, and from Skint Records to the correct shade of denim, this first episode lays out the core principles of BBC.
Let us know what you think in the comments – including on our Letterboxd list, where you can check out the full selection of BBC contenders, from Shallow Grave to Kneecap.
